BBQ Ranch Turkey Burgers

Once upon a time, ranch dressing was my food of choice. Have I ever mentioned my undying love for french fries dipped in ranch? I actually used to eat cheese fries dipped in ranch. From Denny’s. Clearly, I’ve always been an example of clean, intuitive eating. What body doesn’t need cheese fries dipped in ranch?!?! Freaks. Weirdos. Crazies.

You know what else ranch is delicious on? Pizza. Is that weird? Maybe. I swear, unless it was ice cream, I put ranch on it. Ice cream is good enough on its own, I guess. Actually, it’s probably the only food I loved more than ranch and cheese. Mmmmmmmm, ice cream. Okay, but seriously. Burger. Barbecue. Bacon. Ranch. Heaven. Just like you’d find at any burger joint.

Only, you know, more delicious. And minus the side of heart attack 😉

This is one of my favorite ways to cook. Taking my favorite meals from my unhealthier days, and turning them into something equally (and often more) delicious that I can feel good about enjoying! I spent a long time thinking that eating healthy meant I had to give up everything I loved, and that healthy food would be gross, and unsatisfying, but I have proven myself wrong time, and time again. These burgers are no exception–they taste like comfort food, and leave you feeling energized, rather than weighed down. Perfect for summer!

BBQ Ranch Turkey Burgers

yield 5 servings

• 20 oz lean ground turkey (at least 93%, but 99% ground turkey breast is the best)
• 1 tbs egg substitute
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbs all natural barbecue sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion + more for topping
• 3 slices center cut bacon, cooked and chopped + (extra slices for topping–optional)
• freshly ground salt & pepper
• 1/3 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 1-2 tsp ranch seasoning
• 5 100% whole grain buns (whole wheat, brown rice, etc.), toasted

Directions:

1. Preheat grill. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg substitute, 2 tbs barbecue sauce, 0nion, chopped bacon, salt and pepper. Thoroughly combine, and form into 5 even patties.
2. Grill until cooked throughout (approx 5 minutes per side). Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix until well combined.
3. Place cooked patties on toasted wheat buns, then top with barbecue ranch sauce, bacon, onions, and any other desired toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, bell pepper, etc.)